Balrath FC benefit from FAI funding

Balrath FC benefit from FAI funding

FAI Chief Executive John Delaney officially turned the sod a new club facility in County Meath earlier this month for Balrath FC.

26th Jun 2018

The club which is based just outside Navan, has had a nomadic existence since they were founded in 2010, and has used a number of grounds in the area to play their home matches on.

Balrath has 15 underage teams. Nine teams compete in the NDSL and four all-girls teams play in the NECSL. The club has 180 players (including 60 girls) aged from four to 14.

John Delaney was joined by the FAI's Development Officer for Meath, Barry Ferguson to turn the sod on the club's new facility near Kentstown.

On behalf of the FAI, Mr. Delaney gave the club €10,000 to help with development of the facility, and quicken the start date on their plans.

"I was delighted to travel to the club earlier this month and see the great work that is happening with Balrath FC. Despite only being founded in 2010, I was impressed to see the enthusiasm among the community and the hard work that has gone into securing their own grounds.

"On behalf of the FAI, I was delighted to present the club with €10,000 to help their further the development.”

Speaking this week, Balrath PRO Brian Matthew said the five-figue sum has proven very beneficial.

"We were delighted to have John visit the club. The children were thrilled to meet him and we were delighted with his generous gift of 100 ticket for a Republic of Ireland match later this year.

"With the good weather, we hope the pitch will be seeded in the coming weeks. We hope to be playing games here in time for the start of the 2019 season."